Co-operative education in Canada

New research published this month shows that seminars and workshops are the most common method used by co-operatives to fulfill their educational role as described in fifth principle of co-operation. The study explores the application of the International Co-operative Alliance’s fifth co-operative principle (education, training, and information) within Canadian co-operatives.

In Canada, co-operative associations and federations are the largest single group offering educational initiatives (38%), which is a traditional service offered by second- and third-tier co-operatives in stewarding the fifth principle.

The study also explores educational initiatives undertaken by co-operatives to educate stakeholder groups (staff, board, members) and, more broadly, the general public. It looks closely at external organizations that offer educational initiatives specifically targeted at co-operatives.